Sure, there are plenty of crazy weight loss diets out there these days. Some diets want you to believe that carbohydrates are the enemy. Other diets focus on a lower fat intake, while teaching that excessive fat consumption will cause weight gain. But which diet is right for you? Perhaps there are some common denominators we can use as guidelines to help you create your own weight loss diet.

In our experience we have realized the following:

1. Not all carbohydrates are bad. Vegetables and Fruits are the best carbs for losing weight.
2. Not all fats are bad. Omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids (EFA’s) are needed by the body.
3. Vegetables and fruits provide the most nutrition with fewer calories than most foods and may help you lose weight. We include plenty of vegetables in our weight loss diet.
4. Everyone should eat a reasonable amount of quality protein each day. (40-60 grams). A deficiency in protein may increase your hunger.
5. Drink plenty of pure water to help your body flush out any toxins stored in the fat cells. Also, sometimes we feel hungry when we are really just thirsty.
6. Everyone is different. In other words, what works for one person may not work for someone else. Listen to your body. Start with our general guidelines and adjust them to meet your own personal needs. This will save you time and money.

These key points can help you build your own weight loss diet as a part of your own weight loss program. You are a unique individual, meaning you need less fat and a few more carbs, or perhaps more fat and a few less carbs (keep on reading for more on good carbs and fats). The two keywords to remember are quality and quantity.

First let’s look at quality. Start by considering the quality of your food. As far as carbohydrates go, plenty of vegetables along with 1-2 pieces of fruit per day are the best quality carbs. Cut back on the grains and sugars and see how you feel. You may also want to try eating some beans in moderation. Another benefit to eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is the fiber, which may help keep your intestines clean and help you lose weight.

Fat is another important part of a balanced weight loss diet. Make sure you are getting a fairly balanced ratio (1:1) of omega 3 and omega 6 EFA’s. Coconut oil has also been shown to help with weight loss by boosting metabolism while boosting the immune system. Be sure to avoid all hydrogenated oils and trans fats.

Quality protein comes from animal products, chiefly meat. Animal protein is complete protein that contains all of the essential amino acids your body needs in relatively balanced ratios. Eggs and dairy are also acceptable sources of protein. It may be wise to purchase animal protein that does not contain hormones and antibiotics.

Now that we have explored how the quality of foods can help your weight, it is time to focus on quantity. We’ve had great success with the following general guidelines:

1. Eat as many vegetables as you want, both cooked and raw. (But don’t overdo on the very starchy veggies like potatoes)
2. Consume 1-2 pieces of fresh fruit daily.
3. Eat some quality protein 2-3 times daily. (Beef, Chicken, Fish, Eggs, Dairy)
4. Consume quality fats daily and as you see fit to complement your healthy diet. (Omega 3’s and omega 6’s, butter, and coconut oil in moderation)
5. Cut back on the consumption of grains, breads, and simple sugars. Excessive consumption these foods may lead to weight gain.

Once you begin exercising and making dietary changes, keep in mind that the results may take time. Don’t expect to lose 5 pounds in a week. You may even hit a plateau or two along the way. However, we feel it is important to consider the difference in how you feel. Has your energy increased? Do you find that you are not thinking about food as much as before? If so, then you’re probably on the right track. Stick with it, your patience will be rewarded.

Besides diet and exercise, we have found a few supplements that can be very helpful when it comes to weight loss. One such supplement is our Liquid Catalyzed Chromium Picolinate, which helps the body metabolize fats and carbohydrates more efficiently.  Our Legendary Phytogenic Minerals also provide a broad spectrum of nutrition in the form of minerals and elements, which may help prevent nutrient deficiencies; a common problem that could surface when you are trying to lose weight. 

In the end diet and exercise are an essential part of any successful weight loss program. Supplements may also be helpful, especially in the early stages of weight loss. Most importantly, find the balance that works for you, and don’t make the mistake of using a out-of-the-box diet that recommends avoiding healthy carbohydrates and/or fats. Use this guide and your own common sense to lose weight the right way this summer and keep it off for good. You body will thank you.

Beauty from the inside out

Lasting beauty is the result of a healthy body; which means good internal health.  All of the best beauty programs address this simple concept.  You can buy the best anti-wrinkle creams in the world, but if you are not paying attention to your body’s overall health, especially internal health, then you will not get the best results.

Beauty from the inside out starts with good nutrition.  If your body does not have the nutrients it needs to regulate the different bodily systems and build healthy cells, then lasting beauty will be next to impossible to achieve.  Some of the most important nutrients to help promote good health and beauty are:  B Vitamins, Selenium, Zinc, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Beta Carotene and Retinol (Vitamin A), and the sulfur amino acids.

There are two ways to get the nutrition you need to help create lasting beauty.  First, eat a diet that full of healthy whole foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables.  You may also want to read about phytochemicals and antioxidant rich berries.  Second is supplementation, which is also great because even the best diets can be lacking in vital nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and beautiful.  Also be sure to drink plenty of pure water.

Our Legendary Liquid Trace Minerals are a great addition to your beauty program.  This supplement provides a broad array of minerals and elements that may be lacking in many modern day diets.  These minerals and elements are highly bioavailable to the body because they come from plants.

Healthy Hair

Healthy hair is natural, clean, shiny, and beautiful; just as nature intended.  Using chemical hair products or high heat hair devices can damage your hair.  Unlike the skin, hair is not able to repair itself, so it is important to practice a safe and natural hair care program.  Click here to read about the steps to healthy hair.

Healthy Skin

Your skin reflects and reacts to your entire being – physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual.  The skin is also the largest bodily organ.  Your skin is like a big sponge, absorbing the substances that it comes in contact with.  Once again it is very important that you use natural skin care products to keep your skin happy and healthy.  Click here to read more about healthy skin.

Healthy Nails

Maintaining healthy natural nails is not complicated.  Once again, keep it natural if you can: avoid putting too many harsh chemicals on your nails.  Don’t be afraid to include the good fats in your diet, and be sure to drink plenty of pure water.  It is also a good idea to use lotions without harsh chemicals and preservatives.  Click here for more information on how to properly care for your nails.

Our Holistic Beauty Program Gets Results

Our holistic beauty program yields great results because it addresses the key factors involved in achieving lasting beauty:

1. Internal Health Reflects External Beauty – Your body is a single unit that works together in harmony.  If internal health is poor, then external beauty will also suffer as a result.
2. Natural is Better – Natural beauty products tend to produce great results over long periods of time without any side-effects.  Your body craves natural beauty products.
3. Address the Entire Problem – Why look at only one part of a problem when there may be several parts?  Our holistic beauty program addresses many different parts of your body for true and lasting beauty.

We hope that you have this newsletter informative and helpful, and remember to let your true beauty shine.

Interesting Facts About the Brain

• A fully developed human brain weighs 3 pounds.
• There are over 10,000 miles of blood vessels in your brain.
• Your brain can generate 10 to 23 watts of energy when you’re awake.  That’s enough energy to power a light bulb!
• A newborn baby’s brain triples it’s size in the first year of life!

Brain Development in Early Life

Brain development in the early years of life is very important.  The mother-to-be sets the stage for healthy brain development before the child is even born.  In fact, most of the brain’s cells are formed before birth while the unborn baby is still inside of the mother. ¹

It is very important that mothers-to-be get good nutrition and practice a healthy lifestyle.  T.J. Clark’s Liquid Trace Minerals may help to prevent nutrient deficiencies before, during and after pregnancy.

Immediately after birth, a child’s brain starts to develop at a very rapid rate.  Connections to the newly formed brain cells are made after birth in the early years of life. ¹  Here is a list outlining the critical periods of brain development:

1. Visual and Auditory  Development - Major development takes place from birth to the age of 5.  It is important to expose babies and children to a variety of colors, shapes and sounds in order to help encourage this developmental process.
2. Language Development - Takes place from birth to the age of 10.  However, major development takes place in the first few years of life.  We believe it is important to read to children in the early years to help accelerate language development.
3. Physical and Motor Development - Major development takes place from birth to the age of 12.
4. Emotional and Social Development - Major development takes place from birth to the age of 12.  We believe that parents should make it their mission to provide a positive and loving environment for their children.

Exercise Your Brain

As we become adults and get older, it is important to continue exercising the brain on a regular basis.  So what can you do to exercise your brain?  We have found that learning new skills is one of the best ways for you to exercise your brain.  Learning a new skill allows your brain to program new muscle memories, learn new motions and remember everything. ²

Here are some helpful tips on how to get the most out of learning a new skill:

1. Learn about a skill that you find interesting.  You will be more inclined to stick with it.
2. Practice your skill a little bit each day: 30 minutes a day is a good place to start.
3. Stick with it and remember to have fun.  You will get much more out of the learning process if remember to have fun along the way. 

Physical Exercise and Brain Health

Physical Exercise is also very good for your brain.  Exercise stimulates the brain and increases the amounts of oxygen and glucose available. ³  Walking is a good place to start if you are somewhat new to exercise.  It is best to stay active and do a reasonable amount of exercise each day to help keep your brain and body fit.

Good Nutrition and Brain Health

Another very important part of keeping your brain healthy is good nutrition.  Your brain needs a wide variety of nutrients to function properly.  In other words, the brain is no different that any other part of the body: without the right nutrients it will not work properly.  One method of getting the nutrients necessary for maintaining a healthy brain is by eating a variety of healthy foods.  Supplements can also be very helpful.

Here is a list of supplements that may help support brain health:

1. Fish Oil - Fish Oil contains the fatty acids EPA and DHA.  DHA is the main constituent of cell membranes in the brain, and a deficiency can weaken your brain. ⁴  You might also want to read about Cod Liver Oil.
2. B Vitamins - The B Vitamin complex helps to regulate the brain as well as the entire nervous system.  Furthermore, B Vitamins also help improve your memory and energy levels. ⁵
3. Alpha Lipoic Acid - This antioxidant nutrient has the capability to neutralize free radicals in both fat and water, making it ideal for protecting the brain, which is made up of both fat and water.
4. Vitamin C - This nutrient also protects the brain from free radical damage and helps to strengthen blood vessels.
5. Vitamin E - A potent fat-soluable free radical scavenger; Vitamin E protects the fatty sheath that surrounds the axons of brain cells and also the lipid bilayer that forms the cells’ membranes. ⁶  It may also be more effective to take a Vitamin E supplement that provides the entire Tocopherol complex, instead of only d-Alpha-Tocopherol.

Neurotransmitter Levels and Brain Health

Neurotransmitter levels in humans have been directly linked with brain function.  For example, one neurotransmitter called serotonin is responsible for many different brain-related functions including: the regulation of sleep, pain perception, body temperature, blood pressure and hormonal activity. ⁷  You can actually have your neurotransmitter levels checked.  Click here to learn more about neurotransmitter testing and research.

Conclusion

In the end a healthy brain means a healthier you.  It’s never too early or too late to start focusing on brain health.  If you have children, read to them and encourage them to stay active; both physically and mentally.  Eat a balanced diet full of healthy foods and take supplements to give your brain the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.  We hope you have found this guide to better brain health helpful.

Sources:

1. Understanding Brain Development in Young Children.  Sean Brotherson.  College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources.  http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/yf/famsci/fs609w.htm
2. How To Learn a New Skill for Brain Health and Mental Fitness.  Mark Stibich, Ph.D.  About.com:Longevity.  http://longevity.about.com/od/mentalfitness/ht/new_skill.htm
3. Physical Exercise for a Better Brain.  The Franklin Institute - Resources for Science Learning.  http://www.fi.edu/learn/brain/exercise.html#physicalexercise
4. You (and Your Brain) are What You Eat.  Dr. Andrew Weil.  Time Magazine.  http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1147181,00.html
5. The Facts about Brain-Boosting Nutrients.  Lauri M. Aesoph N.D.  HealthWorld Online.  http://www.healthy.net/scr/Article.asp?Id=267
6. Your Brain on Vitamin E.  Dr. Deborah Gleason.  Dr. Deb’s Natural Health.  http://www.doctordebnaturalhealth.com/vitaminE.html
7. Neurological Control - Neurotransmitters.  Brain Explorer - Lundbeck Institute.  http://www.brainexplorer.org/neurological_control/Neurological_Neurotransmitters.shtml

Joint problems seem to get worse with age.  One source stated that joint pain is very common among adults over the age of 45. ¹  Keep in mind that there are also many different causes of joint pain and inflammation, so it is important to remember that each different cause may respond best to it’s own unique treatment program.  Now let’s look at some of the most common types of chronic joint pain.

Osteoarthritis (OA)

OA was at one time called a degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis in older people. Symptoms can range from stiffness and mild pain that comes and goes to severe joint pain and even disability.

OA usually affects the hands and the large weight-bearing joints of the body: the knees and hips. Early in the disease, pain occurs after activity and rest brings relief; later on, pain occurs with very little movement, even during rest.

Scientists think that several factors may cause OA in different joints. OA in the hands or hips may run in families. OA in the knees is linked with being overweight. Injuries or overuse may cause OA in joints such as knees, hips, or hands.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

RA can be one of the more disabling forms of arthritis. Signs of RA often include morning stiffness, swelling in three or more joints, swelling of the same joints on both sides of the body (both hands, for example), and bumps (or nodules) under the skin most commonly found near the elbow. RA can occur at any age and affects women about three times more often than men.

Scientists don’t know what causes RA but think it has something to do with a breakdown in the immune system, the body’s defense against disease. It is also likely that people who get RA have certain inherited traits (genes) that cause a disturbance in the immune system. 

Joint Problems: A closer look

If you are struggling with chronic joint pain and inflammation, here is a detailed list of causes that might help you in finding the source of your problem:

• Unusual exertion or overuse, including strains or sprains
  Injury, including fracture
• Gout (especially found in the big toe)
• Osteoarthritis
• Septic arthritis
• Tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Infectious diseases, including: Influenza, Measles (rubeola), Rheumatic fever, Epstein-Barr viral syndrome, Hepatitis, Mumps, Rubella (German measles), Varicella (chickenpox) and Paravirus
• Lyme disease
• Fibromyalgia
• Chondromalacia patellae
• Osteomyelitis
• Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus

Lifestyle Changes for Healthy Joints

Lifestyle changes can be a very beneficial part of any program aimed at supporting the health of your joints.  Exercise in moderation can be helpful because it promotes circulation which helps to repair damaged joints.  Look into low impact aerobic activities such as cycling, walking, or swimming.  Rest is also important because too much stress on the joints can cause damage and make them worse.  Be sure to listen to your body.

Supplements for Healthy Joints

There are many supplements that may promote joint health in a variety of ways.  Let’s take a closer look at some of these supplements:

1. Flax seeds - Flax seeds and flax seed oil contain alpha-linolenic acid (a good source of Omega-3’s), which has been known to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. ²
2. Fish oil and Cod liver oil - Fish oil contains EPA and DHA.  These already converted Omega-3 fatty acids reduce joint inflammation.  Another type of fish oil known as cod liver oil has been shown to help in the regeneration of cartilage tissue within the body. ³
3. Glucosamine and Chondroitin - These molecules make up the type of cartilage that is found in joints.  Taking a supplement with both glucosamine and chondroitin may help increase the rate of new cartilage being formed in the joints. ⁵ 
4. Vitamin D - This vitamin is showing promise in the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).  A recent study showed that women with the highest amount of Vitamin D in their diets had the lowest incidence of RA. ⁴ 
5. MSM - MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is an organic sulfur that is involved in the health of muscles, tendons and ligaments.  MSM is also well-known as an anti-inflammatory.
6. Turmeric - this herb has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities; making it a good choice for controlling joint pain and inflammation.

Use our list of natural supplements as part of your own personal program to improve the health of your joints.  It is also helpful to look for any underlying causes tied to your joint problems.  If you can target your treatment program towards the real causes of your joint programs, then the results will be much more beneficial.  Remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  Improve the health of your joints today and enjoy a better life tomorrow. 

Sources:

1. Joint Pain.  MyOsteoarthritisCentral.com.  http://www.healthcentral.com/osteoarthritis/symptoms-10715-108.html
2. Flaxseed and health.  healingdaily.com.  http://www.healingdaily.com/detoxification-diet/flaxseed.htm
3. Stimulation of regeneration of joint cartilage by cod liver oil and ASD (3rd fraction).  SpringerLink.  http://www.springerlink.com/content/r145372ql187n8k4/
4. Vitamin D May Prevent Arthritis.  Salynn Boyles.  WebMD.  http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/news/20040109/vitamin-d-may-prevent-arthritis
5. Glucosamine and Chondroitin.  Jonathan Cluett M.D.  About.com:Orthopedics.  http://orthopedics.about.com/cs/supplements/a/glucosamine.htm

Fifty percent or more of the fat in coconuts is lauric acid. ^{1 2}  And to make the news even better; the fat from coconuts seems to have a positive effect on healthy cholesterol levels (as long as the coconut fat is not hydrogenated).  Coconut fat provides the body with instant energy, and appears to raise the metabolism and boost the immune system.

Click here for a complete nutrition analysis of coconut oil (coconut fat).

What exactly is lauric acid?

Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid with a 12-carbon structure. ³Saturated fats have a different molecular structure when compared to monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats.  Saturated fats, including lauric acid, can be digested without the fat digesting enzyme lipase or the need for bile from the liver. ⁴  This is good news for people who have trouble digesting fats, including people who have lost their gallbladder.

Once inside of the body, lauric acid is often converted into monolaurin; a potent natural antibiotic that kills pathogenic viruses and bacteria. ⁵  For individuals fighting viruses (such as mononucleosis, the flu and AIDS) or bacterial infections, 24 grams of lauric acid per day is a therapeutic dose according to Mary Enig PhD, who is an expert in the field of lipid biochemistry. ⁶  Lauric acid might be one of the most promising natural antibiotics.

Coconut oil and the thyroid gland

Besides inhibiting viruses and bacteria, coconut oil and the fat from coconuts also seems to have positive effects on thyroid function.  How does coconut oil help the thyroid gland?  The saturated fats in coconut oil stimulate the metabolism; therefore helping to stimulate the thyroid gland. ⁷

Sometimes there can be a correlation between weight problems and an under-active thyroid.  Since coconut oil increases the body’s metabolism, it may also be an useful aid in weight loss.  In fact, there are many stories out on the Internet of people have used coconut oil as part of a successful weight loss program.

Coconut oil as an antioxidant

Coconut oil is an excellent antioxidant, preventing the oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids. ⁷  Coconut oil has also shown promise in the fight against cancer, and the oil is very nourishing to the skin and hair; helping to moisturize and prevent damage.

Coconut fat provides energy

Coconut fat requires very little digestive effort by the body, the fatty acids are quickly put to work, creating a surge energy and vitality.  It is almost as if coconut fat provides the same type of energy as sugary carbs, but without the crash later or the spike in blood sugar.  In fact, many people with diabetes use coconut oil as a source of energy instead of carbohydrates.

In the end coconuts are a functional food with many benefits.  The antiviral and antimicrobial activities of lauric acid are helpful to many suffering from infections, and may also be a useful preventative for the rest of us.  Coconut fat is good for metabolism and beneficial to the entire body, especially the thyroid gland.  And coconuts as well as coconut oil provides healthy energy that does not cause major disruptions in blood sugar.  Here’s to your health!

Sources:

1.  Coconut Oil.  Dr. Bera Dordoni.  Bastis Foundation.  http://www.bastis.org/coconut.htm
2. Vegetable oil, Coconut.  Netrition.com.  http://www.netrition.com/oils/coconut.html
3. The Importance of Saturated Fats for Biological Functions.  Mary G. Enig, PhD.  The Weston A. Price Foundation.  http://www.westonaprice.org/knowyourfats/import_sat_fat.html
4. Digestion and Absorption of Food Fats.  Mary G. Enig, PhD.  The Weston A. Price Foundation.  http://www.westonaprice.org/knowyourfats/fat_absorption.html
5. The Latest Studies on Coconut Oil.  Mary G. Enig, PhD.  The Weston A. Price Foundation.  http://www.westonaprice.org/knowyourfats/coconut-oil-studies.html
6. Mary Enig, PhD On Cholesterol, HIV, and Coconut Oil.  Mark Konlee.  Coconut Research Center.  http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/article10089.htm
7. Coconut Oil.  Ray Peat PhD.  RayPeat.com.  http://raypeat.com/articles/articles/coconut-oil.shtml

What is an antioxidant?

An antioxidant is a substance that is capable of counteracting the damaging effects of the process of oxidation. ¹  Antioxidants come in many different forms such as: vitamins, minerals and enzymes.  Some examples of well-known antioxidants are: beta carotene (Vitamin A), vitamin C, vitamin E and the mineral selenium.  However, there are many more antioxidants that can be used by the body to protect against the damaging effects of free radicals.

What is a free radical?

A free radical is basically a molecule with an odd number of unpaired electrons in it’s outer shell. ²  The laws of science have taught us that a free radical does not want to exist with unpaired electrons; that is with an uneven amount of electrons in it’s outer shell.  Therefore a free radical will attack another molecule within the body and steal it’s electron.  Then the attacked molecule becomes a free radical itself and will attack another molecule.  As this process continues, cell damage can occur.

Where do free radicals come from?

There two main sources of free radicals: free radicals that come from inside the body (endogenous) and free radicals that come from outside the body (exogenous).  Endogenous free radicals are the by-products of metabolism, aerobic respiration and inflammation. ¹  Exogenous free radicals can come from a number of sources including: sunlight, pollution, X-rays, smoking and alcohol. ¹

What does all this talk about antioxidants and free radicals mean?

A diet rich in antioxidants might be better than health insurance.  Antioxidant rich foods will protect cells and prevent pre-mature aging.  Which foods are rich in antioxidants you ask?  In general, fruits and vegetables are frequently seen at the top of the list. ³  Also, here is a list of the twenty most antioxidant rich foods.

Another source of antioxidants is supplementation.  Vitamin E and vitamin C are among some of the most powerful antioxidants available in supplement form.  T.J. Clark’s Legendary Liquid Trace Minerals also provide a potent source of antioxidants in the form of bioavailable minerals and elements.

Our Legendary Minerals are an impressive scavenger of free radicals (free ions).  They are many times more effective than most nutritional supplements in binding with and removing harmful particles.  Please beware of supplements that claim to sell you a bottle of ionic minerals (free radicals).  When you buy T.J. Clark’s Liquid Trace Mineral Formula, you get a minimally processed product that comes from nature.  We believe that mother nature knows best.

In the end antioxidants play a part in keeping us healthy and looking younger.  As we age, our antioxidant needs will most likely become greater. ²  So make sure to eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and for extra insurance take T.J. Clark’s Legendary Minerals.  Remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Sources:

1. How Antioxidants Work.  Robin Brett Parnes.  How Stuff Works.
   http://recipes.howstuffworks.com/antioxidant1.htm
2. Understanding Free Radicals and Antioxidants.  Health Check Systems.
   http://www.healthchecksystems.com/antioxid.htm
3. Best Food Sources of Antioxidants.  Cathy Wong.  About.com: Alternative Medicine.
   http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/supplements/a/antioxidants.htm

What is considered to be a healthy diet?

Before we can discuss the economics of eating healthy, we must first come up with a baseline for a healthy diet. First, it is important to remember that the best diet for one person may not be the best diet for someone else. Some people will do better on a diet higher in carbohydrates and lower in fat. Others might need to cut back on carbs and put more focus on healthy fats and protein. You may want to consult your health care professional if you are not sure what is best for you.

Here are a few general guidelines we can offer when it comes to eating healthy:

1. Lots of fruits and vegetables - Fruits and vegetables are alkaline forming and naturally detoxify the body. They also contain phytonutrients, which have been proven to prevent degenerative disease. If you have a carbohydrate intolerance, you may need to focus more on vegetables and less on fruits.
2. Protein - Everyone needs protein in varying amounts. Protein is broken down into amino acids, and amino acids are the building blocks of the body. Deficiencies in amino acids can cause many problems. The best sources of complete protein are: meat, eggs, fish and dairy products. If you wish to buy land dwelling animal protein; try to buy protein that is free of hormones and antibiotics.
3. Good Fats - There is some debate over which types of fats are actually “good.” For example, coconut oil has traditionally been labeled as a “bad fat” because of it’s high saturated fat content. However, cultures who have traditionally consumed coconut oil on a regular basis have had a lower incidence of heart disease. ¹ For more information on coconut oil and heart disease, read this great article. Other good fats that you need are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Healthy sources include: nuts, seeds, avocados and oily fish. Stay away from store bought vegetable oils and trans fats (hydrogenated oils).

The cost of eating healthy

Now that we have established which foods are healthy, let’s take a closer look at the cost of eating healthy. Is eating healthy more expensive? In our experience; the answer depends on how you go about purchasing your healthy foods. Here are some tips to get the most healthy food for your dollar:

1. Organic vs. Non organic - You don’t need to buy everything organic. While it is true that organic produce has higher nutrient content and generally less pesticides and herbicides, you can still get health promoting benefits from non organic vegetables and fruits. Use this list as a baseline for better purchasing decisions when it comes to non organic produce.
2. Homemade is better - Make your meals at home if at all possible. Make large meals and save the leftovers for a healthy meal later. Why? First, buying healthy prepared food is very expensive. Second, you will know exactly what you are getting in homemade meals, making these meals healthier for you.
3. Buy in bulk - Buy foods in bulk and store them in the freezer if possible. While it is better to buy some foods fresh (such as fruits and vegetables), you can buy and store grains, legumes, nuts, seeds and meats in the freezer. This will save you money.

What about healthy drinking water?

There are two fairly economical ways to produce pure drinking water: reverse osmosis or a water distiller. Both will remove most of the impurities from water, making it ideal for drinking. However, a distiller will also remove harmful pathogens from your drinking water. Carbon filtration systems do not remove mercury and other harmful contaminants from your drinking water.

What about supplements?

Supplements can be a great compliment to any nutritional program. In fact, supplements are becoming more and more necessary in today’s world because of poor soils and diets high in processed foods. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your supplements in order to save money:

1. Choose supplements that come from whole foods and are not synthesized. Yes, these supplements will generally cost more, but they will be much more beneficial to your health in the long run. One reason being that the nutrients found in supplements that come from whole foods are generally more bioavailable. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, said “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”
2. Buy supplements directly from the manufacturer if possible. You can usually save money on your supplements this way by eliminating the middle-man and buying higher up on the supply chain.

Try T.J. Clark’s Legendary Phytogenic Mineral Formula. Why? First because our soils are becoming depleted in the vital trace minerals and elements that our bodies need. Second because our Legendary Mineral Formula aids in the absorption of all nutrients. Take it with your other supplements to get more nutritional value (which of course means more economic value).

Making the transition to a healthy diet

If you wish to make the transition to a healthier diet, realize that this process will not happen overnight. Start by incorporating a few healthy foods. Then slowly cut back on foods that are not as healthy. Here is a short list of generally unhealthy foods:

• Trans fats (hydrogenated oils)
• Meats and dairy containing hormones and antibiotics
• Processed foods
• Foods with preservatives such as MSG
• Sugary foods such as soda and candy

All of the above foods can be replaced with healthier alternatives. In some cases the healthy foods will cost less. Replace trans fats with avocados, raw nuts, raw seeds and coconut. Purchase hormone and antibiotic free meat and dairy products. To save money, put together your own meals free of preservatives. Learn to eat fruit in moderation instead of consuming soda and candy.

Eating healthy is the best health insurance

In the end eating a healthy diet is not necessarily more expensive, especially if you use the advice above. A healthy diet focuses more on quality and less on quantity. Healthy eating, over the long term, will more than pay for itself in the amount saved by preventing health problems. As a result, your quality of life will be better, and you will probably live longer.

Sources:

1. Coconut Oil and Heart Disease. Bruce Fife, N.D. Coconut Research Center. http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/article10132.htm

An overview of hormones

Hormones are manufactured by your endocrine glands. The major endocrine glands include: the adrenal glands, pituitary, pineal, thymus, thyroid and pancreas. ¹ Men also produce hormones in the testes, and women produce hormones in the ovaries.

Hormones basically regulate your bodily functions. ² For example, insulin secreted by the pancreas helps to control blood sugar. Testosterone, secreted by the testes, creates male sex characteristics such as a beard and a deep voice. ³ Examples of hormones include cortisol, erythropoietin, aldosterone, antidiuretic hormone (ADH), estrogen, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), testosterone, parathormone and progesterone.

Hormone supplements and your health

Today hormone supplements are available over-the-counter to help balance out hormone levels. For example, DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) supplements can be purchased to help increase testosterone levels. However, can a person trying to balance their hormones take too much DHEA? Let’s take a closer look at these questions and come up with some answers.

We know that hormones are produced by the endocrine glands, but how are hormone levels regulated in the body? It turns out that hormone levels are regulated by a complex set of feedback loops within the body. ⁴ A simple example of a feedback loop would be a heating/air conditioning system. For example, when it is cold in the winter, the heat comes on when the temperature drops below the set temperature. In other words, your body has systems in place to regulate the levels of many different hormones.

DHEA Supplementation

It turns out that the hormone DHEA does not appear to have a feedback loop within the body. ⁵ However, taking too much DHEA over prolonged periods of time may cause symptoms such as: heart palpitations, acne, itchy scalp, hair loss and prostate problems. Perhaps this is partly because DHEA is a precursor for testosterone, and too much testosterone can cause problems.

Dr. Ray Sahelian recommends a dosage of no more than 5 mg per day of DHEA, while other doctors recommend higher doses. ^{5 6 7} If you are not under the close supervision of a doctor, 5 mg of DHEA per day may be a good way to go. Click here for more information about DHEA supplementation.

Possible side effects of taking DHEA:

• Itchy scalp
• Acne
• Increased body odor
• Menstrual irregularities
• Hair loss
• Heart irregularities

Pregnenolone Supplementation

Pregnenolone is a natural hormone and a precursor to many of the steroid hormones as well as DHEA. Since pregnenolone actually converts into DHEA, individuals taking both pregnenolone and DHEA may need to pay more attention to their dosages. Pregnenolone has been known to help with: energy, memory, vision, clarity of thinking, well-being and libido. ⁸

Again, health professionals seem to have differing opinions on what is considered a “safe” pregnenolone dosage. Dr. Sahelian points out that pregnenolone is converted into many other hormones; and many of these hormones have delicate feedback loops. ⁸ Therefore, it may be best to start out with a low dose of pregnenolone and monitor any changes. Dr. Sahelian recommends a relatively low dose of 1-3 mgs of pregnenolone for prolonged periods of use. Click here for more information about pregnenolone supplementation.

Possible side effects of taking pregnenolone:

• Acne
• Headaches
• Insomnia due to over stimulation
• Irritability
• Anger
• Anxiety
• Hair loss on the head
• Irregular heartbeat

Hormone holidays

If you are supplementing over-the-counter hormones, it may be a good idea to take periodic breaks from your hormone supplements. These breaks have been called hormone holidays. Taking hormone holidays does two things:

1. Since we do not have a complete understanding of how hormones interact inside the body, taking hormone holidays will reduce the risk of complications from a long-term hormone overdose. ⁸
2. Taking hormone holidays makes it easier for you to take notice of any changes (good or bad) brought about by hormone supplementation.

The bottom line

Hormones are vital to your good health. However, for hormones to work properly within your body there must be a balance. Your body has delicate feeback loops to control the amounts of hormones secreted by the endocrine glands. Scientists do not completely understand these mechanisms at the present time. Most over-the-counter hormone supplements contain high doses of hormones, which may actually disrupt the hormone balance and make a person worse instead of better. Perhaps very low doses of over-the-counter hormones coupled with hormone holidays is a safe program. Remember that each person has their own unique set of needs.

Sources:

1. Hormones. MedlinePlus. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/hormones.html
2. Definition of Hormone. MedicineNet.com. http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=3783
3. Definition of Testosterone. MedicineNet.com. http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5747
4. Hudson’s FTP Resource Guide. Hormones and the Body: A Brief Overview. http://www.ftmguide.org/hormonebasics.html
5. Honest DHEA Information. Ray Sahelian, M.D. http://www.raysahelian.com/dhea.html
6. DHEA. Michael Lam, M.D. http://www.drlam.com/opinion/dhea.asp
7. DHEA Alert. Mira Mesa Chiropractic. http://www.drharvey.com/articles_dhea.htm
8. Pregnenolone hormone supplement - honest info. Ray Sahelian, M.D. http://www.raysahelian.com/pregnenolone.html

Since the dawn of time, people have turned to plants for medicine. For more than a million years our ancestors have lived with herbs. They cooked with them, healed with them, scented their bodies and sanctified their prayers with them. In fact, until this century, plant medicine, mingled with faith and luck, was just about the only medicine. Then came laboratories, scientists in white smocks and host of powerful tablets and injections that grabbed the spotlight from leaves, roots, bark and berries. As dreaded diseases were conquered, many gentle and time-honored natural remedies were all but forgotten.

Now things seem to be coming full circle. Many people, seeking alternatives to the cost and side effects of synthetic medications, are turning back to herbs for all kinds of ailments.

Recent research shows that some herbs offer powerful medicinal benefits. Herbalists abroad are the most dynamic and progressive. The Orient and Europe, especially Russia, has an army of scientists and practitioners preoccupied with world medical plant research.

Russian Botanists have over 17,000 classified higher flowering plants, of which about 2,500 are used in the preparation of effective medications.

There are two terms used by  herbalists, they are: Rational Therapeutics describing herbal medications which have a proven scientific course of action within the body, and Empirical Therapeutics describing herbal medications which have unexplained but long established benefits. Both methods of calculating medicinal benefits have provided a wealth of invaluable knowledge.  Many herbal ingredients have great value and strength.  Herbs can be powerful medications and should be used with knowledge and caution.

The beneficial properties of herbs as medicines, among other things, will often depend upon the greenness or ripeness of the plant.  The time for cutting and digging is essential to the strength of its known attributes.  Whether it is summer, winter, spring or autumn, the timing must be in accord with the plant’s protocol.  For instance, Cascara, or Sacred Bark, after it has been stripped in the proper season from the tree and made into a powder or tincture is more valuable and effective with age.  Nettle is a good food in its earliest stage of growth, but will prove unpleasant with age. 

The environment in which a plant is grown is also critical to its medical qualities.  If a plant is indigenous to the locality or country wherein it is found, it is the proper one to select.  Plants that are transported to other countries are often lessened, or deprived of their virtues, unless their new home meets all the essential conditions found in their native place.

It is apparent that herbs suffer from incompatible soil, climate, etc. These conditions will significantly vary the medical properties attributed to them. Medicinal Herbs need to be gathered at the correct time and prepared properly in order to restore a patient from disease to health.

The parts of herbs used for therapeutic purposes are:  Roots, Barks, Twigs, Bulbs, Corms, Rhizomes, Styles, Stigmas, Fruit seed Juice, Tubers, Herbs, Leaves and Flowers. 

Some theologians claim all herbs have a (teleological) identification given by the Creator, and have been called “The Doctrine of Signatures”, which indicate the use for which they were intended.  Thus, a heart-shaped leaf should be used for the heart, the liver leaf, with its three-lobed leaf, for the liver, the walnut as a brain tonic, and so similar shaped plants were named for specific organs of the human body.  They say in the beginning the resembling plants were planned for our associated awareness, the remaining encouraged by experience.  If this is how it was indeed planned, the Indians of all lands displayed noteworthy wisdom before ever a word had been written. 

From the first method of analyzing herbs to present-day techniques, much insight has been obtained as to their content.  Most is still unknown.  Natural medicine is timeless, it is as old as creation and as new as today.  Today the future is promising with all of our scientific “modern discovery of forgotten truths”.

Grape Seed extract, or GSE is an extract from the seeds of grapes. The seeds left over from the production of wine or juice are harvested, ground and extracted. They have a high content of compounds known as OPC’s (oligomeric proanthocyanidins).  OPC’s are found in virtually all plants, and they have been declared to be nontoxic, non-mutagenic, non-carcinogenic, and free of side effects, according to a review by German researcher Professor Peter Rohdewald.  OPC increases the structural strength of weakened blood vessels, it is also one of the most potent antioxidants known.  Grape Seed Extract is one of the least expensive ways to get your daily dose of OPC’s.

Why should you take grape seed extract?

Very few items in the nutritional arsenal can boast as many potential benefits as grape seed extract can.

Grape seed extract and the skin

Some studies say that OPC’s are 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 50 times more powerful than vitamin E. Grape seed is one traditional source of OPC’s, although they are present throughout the plant world.

In a review of the benefits of the OPC’s found in grape seed extract, Bombardelli and Morazzoni (Fitoterapia 66, no. 4 [1995]) note that OPCs’ antioxidant effects are generally credited for their other benefits. The authors note that these include an antimutagenic effect; that is, they inhibit the mutation of DNA. The authors point out that chronic degenerative diseases are believed to be a result of environmental mutagens (substances that cause mutation). OPC’s may be able to counter these mutagens.

OPC’s also have “cosmetic” value. They protect collagen and elastin, which are an important part of the makeup of skin. It is the interlacing of collagen and elastin which gives skin its strength, elasticity, and smoothness. When these two substances are damaged, the skin loses elasticity—the result can be wrinkles. OPC’s help restore damaged collagen and elastin and protect them against further damage. You could say that OPC’s are an oral cosmetic to keep skin healthy.